The Pitt Upsets Merritt Wever’s Severance for Outstanding Drama Series at the Emmys

Lead: Merritt Wever’s Emmy-winning drama series Severance was defeated by HBO Max’s The Pitt for Outstanding Drama Series at the 77th Primetime Emmy Awards in a major upset in Los Angeles on September 15, 2025.

Nut Graf: The unexpected victory underscores a shifting landscape in television prestige, as The Pitt surged in late-season momentum to overtake long-favored contenders. The result highlights the Academy’s embrace of fresh narratives and cements The Pitt as a new powerhouse in dramatic storytelling.

The Upset and Its Significance In a ceremony hosted by comedian Nate Bargatze at the Microsoft Theater, The Pitt secured its first Emmy for Outstanding Drama Series, edging out Severance, which had led the drama field in nominations and critical praise. Industry observers had pegged Severance as a frontrunner, given its innovative premise and strong performances, including Wever’s guest turn that previously earned her an Emmy.

Severance’s Award Haul Despite the loss in the top drama category, Severance still walked away with eight Emmy Awards overall, showcasing its strength across acting, writing, and technical categories. Merritt Wever added to her tally with a win for Outstanding Guest Actress in a Drama Series earlier in the weekend, bringing her career total to three Emmys.

Emergence of The Pitt The Pitt captivated viewers and voters with its gritty portrayal of small-town life and exceptional ensemble cast, led by Noah Wyle in the title role. The series’ late surge in buzz and word-of-mouth likely propelled it past Severance in the final voting round, signaling the Academy’s appetite for underdog narratives.

Broader Awards Landscape The ceremony’s results reflect broader industry trends, with streaming services continuing to challenge traditional network dramas. HBO Max’s victory with The Pitt follows record-breaking success for streaming platforms in both comedy and limited series categories, illustrating an increasingly competitive environment for prestigious content.

Looking Ahead Following this upset, attention now turns to Season 3 prospects for both series. Severance has already been renewed and will aim to reclaim its drama crown, while The Pitt must sustain its momentum to defend its new status as Emmy’s top drama.